How to Replace Maytag Dryer Elements

Centennial Type Cabinet Models

1. Unplug the Maytag dryer from the wall outlet and turn off the water supply to the unit. If you have a gas dryer, the gas valve should be turned off as well.

2. Using a socket wrench, remove the nine hex-head screws that secure the back panel to the dryer.

3. Locate the thermal cutoff switch located on the top left side of the heating can. Disconnect the two wires from the thermal cutoff switch terminals using a pair of needle-nose pliers. Make sure to grab the wire at the leads and not the wire itself. Pulling on the wire itself could cause it to break.

4. Disconnect the wires to the thermostat at the bottom left side of the heating can. Your unit may also have a thermistor next to the thermostat. If necessary, remove the wire harness from the thermistor by pressing in on the locking tab and pulling it away from the thermistor.

5. Use a socket wrench to remove the two bolts that secure the heating element to the heating can on the Maytag dryer. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the thermistor tab if your model is equipped. Grab the thermostat with your fingers and twist it counterclockwise to unlock it from the heating element.

6. Take the old element with you to the appliance repair facility to purchase a new one. Make sure that the replacement part has the same ports for the thermostat and thermistor.

7. Install the thermostat into the side of the new heating element and snap the thermistor into place beside it. Install the new heating element to the heating can securing it with the two hex-head screws.

8. Reconnect the wires to the thermistor by pressing the wiring harness back together until the tabs lock into place. Reconnect the thermostat and thermal cutoff wires.

9. Line up the rear panel and secure it to the dryer using the nine hex-head screws. Turn the gas and water supply back on to the Maytag dryer and plug the dryer back into the wall outlet.

Epic Type Models

1. Use a screwdriver to remove the bottom screws on the toe panel. Pull down the toe panel from the bottom and pull it out and away from the Maytag dryer.

2. Locate the terminal block on the heating element can. The terminal block is on the edge of the can opening. Disconnect the wires from the heating element to the terminal block by grabbing the leads with needle nose pliers and pulling them off of the terminals.

3. Remove the hex-head screw located beside the terminal block to release the heating element from the can. Slide the old heating element out and install a new heating element.

4. Secure the heating element to the can using the hex-head screw. Attach the new heating element wires to the terminal block by sliding the leads over the terminals.

5. Angle the toe panel back into the front of the dryer and push up to lock it behind the front panel. Push the bottom of the toe panel in and secure it with the attaching screws.